Chiefs Eyeing Defensive Reinforcements in Draft

Kansas City GM signals focus on improving defensive line early in 2023 NFL Draft

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly planning to target the defensive line early in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft, according to a report from The Athletic's Jesse Newell. Chiefs general manager Brett Veach acknowledged the need to upgrade the defensive tackle position next to All-Pro Chris Jones, hinting the team will use a high draft pick on that area rather than focusing solely on offensive needs.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' defense struggled at times last season, and upgrading the interior defensive line could help shore up that unit and take pressure off the offense. Strengthening the pass rush and run defense will be crucial for Kansas City to remain a top contender in the AFC.

The details

Veach stated the Chiefs have been "stopgapping the rotation" at defensive tackle with "low-ceiling veterans" in recent years, and that the team will likely target a high-upside prospect at that position early in the draft. This could mean the Chiefs pass on a running back like Jeremiyah Love at No. 9 overall, instead focusing on fortifying the defensive front.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 27-29.

The players

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has indicated the team will prioritize upgrading the defensive line in the upcoming draft.

Chris Jones

The All-Pro defensive tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, who will be the focal point of the team's defensive line.

Jeremiyah Love

The Notre Dame running back who has been projected to the Chiefs in some mock drafts, but may not be the team's top priority if they focus on the defensive line early.

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What they’re saying

“The Chiefs are likely to target interior defensive line early in the draft. Kansas City general manager Brett Veach made clear during his NFL combine podium time that the Chiefs need to get out of their cycle of stopgapping the rotation next to All-Pro Chris Jones with low-ceiling veterans.”

— Jesse Newell, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Chiefs will continue evaluating prospects and finalizing their draft board ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft in late April.

The takeaway

By prioritizing the defensive line early in the draft, the Chiefs are signaling a shift in their offseason strategy, moving away from solely focusing on offensive needs. This approach could pay dividends in strengthening their defense and helping the team remain a top contender in the AFC.